Power Semiconductor Devices
A power semiconductor device is a semiconductor device used as a switch or rectifier in power electronics, for example, in a switch-mode power supply. Such a device is also called a power device or, when used in integrated circuits.
Power devices operate at lower switching speeds, whereas signal devices operate at higher switching speeds. Power semiconductor devices are extensively used in power electronic circuits.
These power semiconductor devices are divided into three types:
- Diodes
- Thyristors
- Transistors
Power Diode
Diodes play a significant role in power electronics circuits. These are uncontrolled rectifying devices. It acts as a switch to perform various functions, such as switching in rectifiers, change reversal of capacitors, energy transfer between components, voltage isolation, and energy feedback from the load to the power source.
Thyristors
Thyristors are extensively used in power electronic circuits. They are operated as bistable switches, operating from state to conducting state. The members of the Thyristors family are SCR, LASCR, RCT, GTO, SITH, and MCT.
Transistors
The power transistors have controlled turn-on and turn-off characteristics. The switching speed of power transistors is much higher than that of thyristors, and they are extensively used in dc-dc and dc-ac converters. The power transistors can be classified as BJTs, MOSFETs, SITs, and IGBTs.
Power Electronics
Power electronics is the technology for efficient conversion, control, and management of electric power and to control the flow of electrical energy. Power electronics are used in everything from laptop chargers to inverters driving electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.
Power electronics manage the flow of electricity, maximizing performance and minimizing waste. Power Electronics runs the devices efficiently with the control and conversion of electric power.
Table of Content
- Power Electronics
- Block Representation
- Working
- Types
- Power Semiconductor Devices
- Applications
- Benefits
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